Coastal hazards, such as hurricanes and sea level rise, continue to increase with climate change — and shoreline modifications, dredging, and boating wakes can exacerbate erosion and property damage. The growing number of coastal residents and the expansion of infrastructure in North Carolina bring additional challenges to the protection of our coastal habitats and communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traditional approaches often are not as effective as greener approaches. However, coastal communities also face many uncertainties regarding natural and nature-based strategies for adaptation \u2014 including questions about engineering effectiveness, as well as social and ecological benefits and trade-offs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Living shorelines mimic natural shorelines and support resilient communities and ecosystems by slowing down and absorbing wave energy, while also providing habitat, improving water quality, stabilizing shoreline sediment, storing carbon, and promoting recreation. As opposed to concrete seawalls or rigid structures that hinder plant and animal growth, living shorelines evolve and expand over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n